Boks Sign Another Stormers Lock

The Springboks have strengthened their lock options with the addition of Adre Smith to the national team, preparing for the upcoming match against the Barbarians and the SA A team’s match against Zimbabwe on Saturday.

Smith, who boasts over 50 caps with the Stormers, is the latest player to join the enlarged squad, following his provincial teammate Ruben van Heerden’s inclusion last week as they gear up for the double-header in Gqeberha.

Smith reported to the squad in Johannesburg on Sunday.

The team is set to depart for the Eastern Cape on Wednesday, with the Bok and SA A teams scheduled for their respective captains’ runs on Friday ahead of Saturday’s games at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

Bok coach Rassie Erasmus and SA A coach Mzwandile Stick will unveil their matchday squads on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Erasmus firmly stated that it would have been foolish to release Tony Brown from his contract early, following New Zealand Rugby’s revelation that the attack coach will return home in 2028.

The South African Rugby Union announced this last week, but when asked about the possibility of letting Brown go early, Erasmus wysed: “No, cutting Tony from our management team was never a consideration for a single second.

“Two years ago, when we learned that Tony was available, we signed him immediately and felt incredibly fortunate to secure him on a four-year deal.

“I don’t understand why anyone would think we should let him go early just because he is returning home after the next World Cup. Why on earth would we want to lose out on his technical expertise prematurely?

“What Tony is providing us right now is invaluable. We all recognize that the next 18 months are crucial for the Springboks. He will be with us for that entire period, and we are very pleased about it.”

Brown will officially transition to join the All Blacks’ coaching staff at the start of 2028 on an initial two-year contract.